MCC East Bay

Monthly Men's Hike
2026-04-04 08:00 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | CA
For Brothers! Join a brotherhood that hikes through life’s ups and downs, finding strength and community in the great outdoors.
Our Monthly MCC Brothers Hike caters to various fitness levels and explores East Bay’s serene landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking to start, we welcome you to share in this journey of fellowship and discovery.

Saturday, April 4 | 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. | Sunol Wilderness Regional Preserve | No children, please (teenage boys, okay) | RSVP at mcceastbay.org/brothers-hike
If brothers want to walk around more, they can do it depending on their interests/time. The hike will be canceled if there are insufficient RSVPs, depending on the weather.

When: April 4, 2026
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. – Please arrive early to park and find the group. The group can wait until 8:10 a.m., and then start the hike. Please be on time since we cannot hold the group.
Carpool: We highly recommend carpooling. No carpool from MCC is available for this hike.
Parking: $5
Meeting Point: Parking lot South of Sunol Visitor Center (See image below)
Trail: Little Yosemite
Distance: Around 6.1 miles.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Misc: Pack a snack and water for yourself. Wear hiking shoes if possible. Bring a small breakfast/ Lunch sandwich or something to eat. Carry enough water, a hat, and a light jacket. Please download the All Trails map (free version) if you decide to return in the middle of the hike. This will be very helpful when navigating back to the parking lot.
RSVP: By Friday, April 3, please let us know you are coming for this hike: https://mcceastbay.org/brothers-hike

Mohammed Kadoura leads these monthly hikes for the brothers. If you have trouble finding the group on the day of the hike, please call or text Br. Mohammed at (617) 935-7347. Please remember that we cannot hold the group, so we request that you arrive on time.
For future hikes, please subscribe to the MCC newsletter and add your phone number to the Men’s Hiking WhatsApp group.

Please wear comfortable walking/hiking shoes, carry a water bottle, a small snack, a hat, sunglasses, and hiking poles if you have any.
Questions? hiking@mcceastbay.org

About this trail:
This trail offers gorgeous vistas, wildflowers, and rock formations. Heading clockwise, you go uphill with lots of shade and downhill via exposed slopes. If heading out later in the day, bring plenty of water and sun protection.
The views at the top of the hill are magnificent, making the steep climb well worth the effort. The trailhead is a short distance south of the visitors center and can be accessed via Geary Road. There are many side trails, so downloading offline maps is helpful to stay on the right path. Parking and restrooms are also available at the beginning of the trail.

#TeamFajr Monthly Sunday Breakfast & Qur'an Khatam
2026-04-05 06:00 - 07:30 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
“If people knew the reward in praying Fajr & Isha in a congregation, they would go to the Masjid even if they had to crawl” [Bukhari & Muslim]
Join Qari Amar Bellaha on the first Sunday of each month. Pray the pre-dawn prayer in congregation (6 a.m.), followed by recitations of Surah Yaseen and Al-Wird Al-Latif (booklets provided) in unison, community dua, and following sunup, Salat al-Ishraq prayer in congregation. Qari Amar will also lead the Khatam (completion) of the Qur’an. Each month, congregation members complete one Juz of the Holy Qur’an. Please finish your Juz by the first Sunday of each month. Sign up for Juz at mcceastbay.org/juz.
2026 Sunday Monthly Khatam with Qari Amar Bellaha:

– January 4, 2026
– February 1, 2026
– No TeamFajr in Ramadan
– April 5, 2026
– May 3, 2026
– June 7, 2026
– July 5, 2026
– August 2, 2026
– September 6, 2026
– October 4, 2026
– November 1, 2026
– December 6, 2026

There are numerous benefits and virtues of reciting the Holy Qur’an and sending Salawat upon Rasulullah (S). Along with bringing great barakah into our lives, these two acts of ‘ibadah are a means by which Allah elevates our rank in Jannah. Though it may be challenging to make a habit of tilawah (recitation) and Salawat individually, there is strength in our numbers. Join your MCC community in our goal of collectively completing a Qur’an khatam. Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

More Qari Amar: https://mcceastbay.org/amar
Imam al-Haddad’s litanies (al-Wird al-Latif): https://mcceastbay.org/wird
The Prophet (Peace be upon him) said, “He who performs the Fajr will be under the protection of Allah.” [Muslim]
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “The best prayer before Allah is the Fajr prayer on Friday in the congregation.”

Stained Glass Geometry: An Art Workshop Inspired by Islamic Design | Nahla Molla
2026-04-05 14:30 - 17:30 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Step into the world of timeless beauty and creativity as we explore the art of Islamic stained glass. In this hands-on workshop, participants will trace intricate geometric patterns inspired by the stunning stained-glass windows of historic Muslim architecture.
We’ll begin by outlining our designs, then—after a short drying break—bring them to life with vibrant glass paints. This two-part process allows time for reflection and connection before the final, colorful reveal.
Sunday, April 5, 2026 | 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. | MCC Banquet Hall | For Sisters & Brothers Ages 16+ | $55/person | Register at mcceastbay.org/glass
MCC has a standing policy that financial need should never hold a person back from participating in any community center activity. To request a financial waiver, please complete our financial waiver request: HTTP://mcceastbay.org/scholarship
About Nahla
Local Artist Nahla Molla is a former public school art teacher who is currently focused on her own personal art practice while also offering creative workshops to the local community as a part-time endeavor. More of her handcrafted and fine works can be found on her Instagram @artsynahleee

April Weekly Zumba Classes for Women & Girls | Reham Sedky
2026-04-08 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-04-15 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-04-22 10:00 - 11:00 | CA
Zumba Classes are back!
For Women & Girls Ages 12+: Join us for weekly Zumba sessions – a fun, stress-relieving way to stay active, boost your energy, and connect with other sisters. Zumba offers incredible benefits, such as improved physical health, mental well-being, and the chance to make fitness an enjoyable part of your routine lifestyle.
This class is designed for women and girls aged 12 and up. It’s open to everyone, and no experience is needed.
Please note this class is not recommended for anyone with back or knee issues.
Starts Wednesday, April 1 | 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. | Weekly | Conference Room (private space) | $15/session | Register at mcceastbay.org/zumba
Classes will be canceled if fewer than five people register.
MCC has a standing policy that financial need should never hold a person back from attending any activity held in the community center. To request a financial waiver, please complete our financial waiver request: HTTP://mcceastbay.org/scholarship

About the Instructor:
My name is Reham Sedky, and I’m excited to introduce myself as a certified Zumba instructor from the Mountain House Muslim community. Because I love my community, I wanted to bring something positive to encourage women to focus on their health and well-being. I noticed many sisters cannot participate in gyms or sports due to privacy concerns or lack of time. This inspired me to become a professional Zumba instructor to offer something new and beneficial. Alhamdulilah, through our Muslim community, I was able to provide this class in a private and comfortable environment that meets our needs.
Please join me, and let’s move, laugh, and grow stronger together, Insha’Allah!
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

*Canceled* Purification of the Heart – Men’s Book Club
2026-04-09 18:30 - 20:00, 2026-04-16 18:30 - 20:00, 2026-04-23 18:30 - 20:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Join us for a weekly book club and discussion group as we collectively strive to purify our hearts and grow closer to Allah through understanding and treating the spiritual diseases that afflict us all. We will read and reflect on Hamza Yusuf’s translation and commentary of Imam Mawlud’s classical work, Purification of the Heart: Signs, Symptoms, and Cures of the Spiritual Diseases of the Heart.
Each session will cover one chapter, including group discussions and reflections on heart diseases and their treatments.
While we encourage consistent attendance for shared reflection and continuity, each session is self-contained, and participants are welcome to drop in even if they cannot commit to attending every week. Sidi Mohammed Kaddoura facilitates this group.
Starts October 16 | Thursdays | 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Conference Room | In-person only
Class Schedule: Tracking Chapters: Purification of the Heart– Men’s Book Club
Disclaimer: This book club is intended to stimulate thought and reflection, not to teach deen. It is not a fiqh or aqidah class.
Discussion Group Guidelines

Everyone has something to say; everyone has something to learn.

Shy participants are encouraged to contribute.
Talkative participants are encouraged to listen more.

Confidentiality is essential.

Do not share other participants’ reflections outside the group. It’s okay to say, “someone in my book club made me think about…” but not “so-and-so said…”

Give 70 excuses.

Assume good intentions. If disagreements arise, remember our shared goal is growth. We leave differences in the room and continue with brotherhood outside of it.

Maintain emotional awareness.

The topics we discuss may evoke strong emotions. All participants are expected to remain calm, respectful, and emotionally intelligent. Please avoid getting carried away in conversation. Proper etiquette is required at all times.

Book Purchase
Please purchase the book in advance if you want to follow along. Available at:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Purification-Heart-Symptoms-Spiritual-Diseases/dp/1929694156
Zaytuna Bookstore: https://bookstore.zaytuna.edu/products/purificationoftheheart

About the Book
This exploration of Islamic spirituality delves into the psychological diseases and cures of the heart. The causes and practical cures of these diseases are discussed, offering a penetrating glimpse into how Islam deals with spiritual and psychological problems and demonstrating how all people can benefit from these teachings.

Author: Imam Mawlud (translated and with extensive commentary by Hamza Yusuf)
About the Translator
Hamza Yusuf is an American Islamic scholar and co-founder of Zaytuna College, the first accredited Muslim liberal arts college in the United States. He is one of the most influential Islamic educators in the Western world, known for his ability to bridge traditional Islamic scholarship with contemporary issues.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

October – 16
Welcome & Book Overview

October – 23
Introduction to Purification

October – 30
Miserliness

November – 06
No Meeting

November – 13
Wantoness

November – 20
Hatred

November – 27
No Meeting – Thanksgiving

December – 04
Iniquity

December – 11
Love of the World

December – 18
Envy

December – 25
No Meeting – Christmas

January – 01
No Meeting – New Year’s Day

January – 08
Blameworthy Modesty

January – 15
Fantasizing

January – 22
Fear of Poverty

January – 29
Ostentation

February – 05
Relying on Other than God

February – 12
Displeasure with Divine Decree

February – 19
No Meeting – Ramadan

February – 26
No Meeting – Ramadan

March – 05
No Meeting – Ramadan

March – 12
No Meeting – Ramadan

March – 19
No Meeting – Ramadan

Masjid Al Emaan Tables @ MCC Jumu'ahs
2026-04-10 13:30 - 16:00 | CA
Masjid Al Emaan is a Masjid in Stockton. They recently purchased land for a necessary expansion to ensure every muslim has a place to pray. They are collecting funds towards this project, for more information, please visit their table this Friday.

Elementary & Middle School Boys Halaqa & Hangout
2026-04-10 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-04-17 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-04-24 19:00 - 21:00 | CA
For Elementary & Middle School Boys (Grades 3-8): Join Coach Amir Rashad weekly for basketball, a youth halaqa, and a hang-out session to help our young men make connections and bonds, form a brotherhood, and navigate school and social challenges as they grow into men.
These sessions aim to craft our next generation of confident, faithful Muslim men. These Halaqas are for grades 3 to 8 only—no younger boys. The sessions are capped at 30 boys. Once limited spots are full, please join the waitlist. Pizza is included each week.
7 p.m. to 9 p.m. | Fridays | November 21, 2025, to May 22, 2026 (with a break in Ramadan 2026) | Hart Middle School | $400 for the entire year or $15/week | Register at mcceastbay.org/boys-hangout
Location of Friday evening sessions for elementary and middle school boys in ‘25 and ‘26:

– November 21, 2025, at Fallon Middle School in Pleasanton
– November 28, 2024 (no session)
– December 5, 2025, at Amador Elementary School in Dublin
– December 12, 2025, at Cottonwood Creek Middle School in Dublin
– December 19, 2025, at Amador Elementary School in Dublin
– December 26, 2024 (no session)
– January 2, 2025 (no session)
– January 9, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– January 16, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– January 23, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– January 30, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– February 6, 2026 – Canceled
– February 13, 2026 – Canceled

– February 20, 2026 (no season in Ramadan)
– February 27, 2026 (no session in Ramadan)– March 6, 2026 (no session)
– March 13, 2026 (no session in Ramadan)
– March 20, 2026 (no session in Ramadan)
– March 27, 2025 (no session)
– April 3, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– April 10, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– April 17, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– April 24, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– May 1, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– May 8, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– May 15, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– May 22, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton

Sidi Quran Hodge also leads a Friday Night Boys High School Halaqa: https://mcceastbay.org/series/friday-night-boys-high-school-halaqa-sidi-quran-hodge-2
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
MCC has a standing policy that financial need should never hold a person back from attaining spiritual or educational knowledge within the four walls of the Muslim Community Center. For a financial waiver for this event, please email scholarship@mcceastbay.org.
About the Halaqa Facilitator:
Coach Amir Rashad (Quentin Youngblood) is a former Division I athlete and international professional basketball player with experience competing in Germany, Brazil, and Indonesia. A standout at El Cerrito High School, he became the all-time scoring leader. He earned All-State and USA Honorable Mention All-American honors before serving as team captain at the University of Washington, where he became a Muslim. Rashad has over 18 years of coaching experience, including varsity head coaching roles in the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Bahrain. As a trainer, he has developed athletes from middle school to NBA prospects through a holistic, skill-centered approach. Founder of Deen Sports Academy.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Friday Night Teen High School Halaqa | Sidi Quran Hodge
2026-04-10 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-04-17 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-04-24 19:00 - 21:00 | CA
Join Ustadh Quran Hodge for weekly Friday evening basketball & halaqa sessions for teen high school boys from 9th through 12th grade.
These sessions aim to craft our next generation of confident, faithful Muslim men. These halaqas are for high school boys only—no younger boys are allowed. Each session is capped at 30 teens. Once limited spots are full, please kindly join the waitlist.
The first hour is physical activity in the gym (basketball, flag football, or soccer), and the latter hour is pizza and a teen halaqa with Sidi Quran.
7 p.m. to 9 p.m. | Fridays | October 24, 2025, to May 22, 2026 (with a break in Ramadan 2026) | $400/person | Register at mcceastbay.org/boys
The MCC has a standing policy that financial need should never hold a family in the East Bay from benefiting from any offering at the MCC facility. To request a financial waiver, please complete the application at mcceastbay.org/scholarship
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
Location of Friday evening sessions for high school boys in ‘25 and ‘26:

– October 24, 2025, at Dublin High School
– October 31, 2025, at Dublin High School
– November 7, 2025, at Donlon Elementary School
– November 14, 2025, at Donlon Elementary School
– November 21, 2025, at Donlon Elementary School
– November 28, 2024 (no session)
– December 5, 2025, at Donlon Elementary School
– December 12, 2025, at Donlon Elementary School
– December 19, 2025, at Donlon Elementary School
– December 26, 2024 (no session)
– January 2, 2025 (no session)
– January 9, 2026, at location TBA
– January 16, 2026, at location TBA
– January 23, 2026, at location TBA
– January 30, 2026, at location TBA
– February 6, 2026, at location TBA
– February 13, 2026, at location TBA

– February 20, 2026 (no season in Ramadan)

– February 27, 2026 (no session in Ramadan)– March 6, 2026 (no session)
– March 13, 2026 (no session in Ramadan)
– March 20, 2026 (no session in Ramadan)
– March 27, 2025 (no session) at location TBA
– April 3, 2026, at location TBA
– April 10, 2026, at location TBA
– April 17, 2026, at location TBA
– April 24, 2026, at location TBA
– May 1, 2026, at location TBA
– May 8, 2026, at location TBA
– May 15, 2026, at location TBA
– May 22, 2026, at location TBA

About Sidi Quran
Qur’an Hodge is a Bay Area native. He began his Islamic education in 2019, studying Arabic at the Al Maqasid Seminary in Pennsylvania. Sidi Quran continued to Dar Al Mustafa, a Yemeni Islamic university in Tarim, Hadhramaut. At this Islamic seminary founded by Habib Umar bin Hafiz, Sidi Qur’an studied Ibtidaiyya, Hadith, Aqida, Seerah, Nahw, Quran Hifzdh, Kitaba, and Tafseer in classical Arabic.
Sidi Quran has completed certificates in Taleef Collective’s Refining the Core and Zaytuna College’s Permaculture Program. He is passionate about creatively working on community issues, particularly the challenges Muslim youth face. He lives with his wife and child in Castro Valley.

– More Quran Hodge: https://mcceastbay.org/quran-hodge

Friday Night Teen High School Halaqa | Sidi Quran Hodge
2026-04-10 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-04-24 19:00 - 21:00 | CA
Join Ustadh Quran Hodge for weekly Friday evening basketball & halaqa sessions for teen high school boys from 9th through 12th grade.
These sessions aim to craft our next generation of confident, faithful Muslim men. These halaqas are for high school boys only—no younger boys are allowed. Each session is capped at 30 teens. Once limited spots are full, please kindly join the waitlist.
The first hour is physical activity in the gym (basketball, flag football, or soccer), and the latter hour is pizza and a teen halaqa with Sidi Quran.
7 p.m. to 9 p.m. | Fridays | October 24, 2025, to May 22, 2026 (with a break in Ramadan 2026) | $400/person | Register at mcceastbay.org/boys
The MCC has a standing policy that financial need should never prevent a family in the East Bay from benefiting from any MCC offering. To request a financial waiver, please complete the application at mcceastbay.org/scholarship
Coach Amir Rashad also leads a Friday Night Elementary & Middle School Boys Halaqa & Hangout:
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
Location of Friday evening sessions for high school boys in ‘25 and ‘26:

– October 24, 2025, at Dublin High School
– October 31, 2025, at Dublin High School
– November 7, 2025, at Donlon Elementary School
– November 14, 2025, at Donlon Elementary School
– November 21, 2025, at Donlon Elementary School
– November 28, 2024 (no session)
– December 5, 2025, at Donlon Elementary School
– December 12, 2025, at Donlon Elementary School
– December 19, 2025, at Donlon Elementary School
– December 26, 2024 (no session)
– January 2, 2025 (no session)
– January 9, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– January 16, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– January 23, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– January 30, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– February 6, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– February 13, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– February 20, 2026 (no season in Ramadan)
– February 27, 2026 (no session in Ramadan)– March 6, 2026 (no session)
– March 13, 2026 (no session in Ramadan)
– March 20, 2026 (no session in Ramadan)
– March 27, 2025 (no session)
– April 3, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– April 10, 2026, at Donlon Elementary School
– April 17, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– April 24, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– May 1, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– May 8, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– May 15, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton
– May 22, 2026, at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton

About Sidi Quran
Qur’an Hodge is a Bay Area native. He began his Islamic education in 2019, studying Arabic at the Al Maqasid Seminary in Pennsylvania. Sidi Quran continued to Dar Al Mustafa, a Yemeni Islamic university in Tarim, Hadhramaut. At this Islamic seminary founded by Habib Umar bin Hafiz, Sidi Qur’an studied Ibtidaiyya, Hadith, Aqida, Seerah, Nahw, Quran Hifzdh, Kitaba, and Tafseer in classical Arabic.
Sidi Quran has completed certificates in Taleef Collective’s Refining the Core and Zaytuna College’s Permaculture Program. He is passionate about creatively addressing community issues, particularly the challenges that Muslim youth face. He lives with his wife and child in Castro Valley.

– More Quran Hodge: https://mcceastbay.org/quran-hodge

Being Muslim: Monthly Convert Bookclub | Ustadh Omar Naisan
2026-04-11 10:30 - 12:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
For All New Muslim Women & Men (regardless of when you took your Shahadah): The Being Muslim Bookclub is dedicated to empowering converts and beginning Muslims to live Islam in a practical, sustainable way.
Each month, we delve into one chapter to gain clarity on how to live and practice Islam, exploring the foundational elements of what Muslims believe.
This eight-month book club with Ustadh Omar Naisan is for all reverts, regardless of when you took your Shahadah. It is invaluable to those new to their journey in Islam and those returning to faith.
10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Second Saturday of Each Month | MCC Prayer Hall | Free; no registration required | Join in person or watch virtually at mcceastbay.org/live

– Watch past recordings of “Being Muslim Bookclub”: http://mcceastbay.org/being-muslim
– More Sidi Omer Naisan: http://mcceastbay.org/omar

MCC’s new Muslim Coordinator, Blanca Vizcarra, facilitates these monthly meetings. She can be reached at blanca@mcceastbay.org or (510) 660-7524.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Saturday, January 10, 2026 (Chapters 1 & 2)
Saturday, February 14, 2026 (Chapter 3)
No session in March during Ramadan break
Saturday, April 11, 2026 (Chapter 4)
Saturday, May 9, 2026 (Chapter 5)
Saturday, June 13, 2026 (Chapter 6)
Saturday, July 11, 2026 (Chapter 7)
Saturday, August 8, 2026 (Chapter 8)

Attendees, we recommend getting the “Being Muslim: A Practical Guide”: https://a.co/d/30W2yXM
The Being Muslim book club provides attendees with practical knowledge they can apply in their daily lives. Whether you are new to the religion or want to freshen up on the basics, the material is designed to deepen your connection to the most essential aspects of Islam through a holistic integration of the three branches of the religion: true beliefs (imān), good conduct (islām), and beauty of character (iḥsān).
We will cover a broad array of subjects, including core theology, purification and prayer, the path of spiritual refinement, a survey of the life of the Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم, an introduction to the Qur’an, how to live an ethical, Islam-centered lifestyle, and more. New Muslims of all backgrounds and ages are welcome.
In our monthly chapter readings, we will focus on foundational beliefs, worship, spiritual refinement, lifestyle, and more. We recommend this book club for those seeking a deeper meaning in their faith.
About the Facilitator
Ustadh Omar Naisan is a Ph.D. student in the Historical & Cultural Studies of Religion program at the Graduate Theological Union. He holds a Master of Arts in New Testament from the Graduate Theological Union. His published MA thesis is titled “Decrypting the Son of Man Problem: An Inquiry into the Dominant Approaches to the Son of Man Problem and its Conspicuous Application in Mark 8:27-31.” His interests include comparative theology, philology in religious corpora, and historical-critical studies of religious canons.
– More Ustadh Omar: http://mcceastbay.org/omar
About the Author
After completing his bachelor’s degree in Islamic studies at the University of Michigan, Asad Tarsin continued his private study of Islamic theology, sacred law, philosophy, and spirituality with various scholars, including Shaykh Hamza Yusuf and Dr. Sherman Jackson. He has served on the board of the Deen Intensive Foundation for over fifteen years. He has a particular interest in creating sustainable models of education for new and returning Muslims, as well as educating the broader public about the beauty of Islam. “Being Muslim: A Practical Guide” is his first published work. Dr. As’ad Tarsin is an emergency physician by training and lives in Michigan with his wife and three children.

Mommy & Me April/May 2026 Sessions | MCC's Mommy & Me Program
2026-04-16 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-04-23 10:00 - 11:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
In this six-week sessions, our toddlers and pre-schoolers (ages 1-5) will develop love for Islam, Allah (swt), and RasulAllah (saw) through book reading, sing-alongs, Parachute Time, activities, and more!
Thursdays: 4/16, 4/23, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14, & 5/21 | 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. | Conference Room | $90 for 6 sessions, or $20 per session | Register at mcceastbay.org/happyhearts
These Mommy & Me sessions are designed for girls and boys ages one to five who are accompanied by a female guardian. Moms, grandmothers, and so on are welcome. This is also a great opportunity to connect with other moms and caretakers in the MCC community.
Our Mommy and Me sessions begin with dua and a salaam/greeting song and end with the Fi-Amanillah song and kid-favorite parachute time.
Questions? Happy Hearts Playgroup Facilitator Sr. Khadija at mommyandme@mcceastbay.org
MCC has a standing policy that financial need should never hold a person back from attending any activity held in the community center. To request a financial waiver, please complete our financial waiver request: HTTP://mcceastbay.org/scholarship

Attorneys @ Jumu'ah: Free Legal Clinic
2026-04-17 13:30 - 15:30 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
During the third and fourth Jumu’ah services at MCC, Legal Attorney Erum Choudhry will be providing a free fifteen-minute consultation in the following areas:

Islamic Estate Planning
Immigration: Family-based, employment-based, Citizenship
Bankruptcy: Chapters 7 and 13

Appointments are required to receive a free consultation. No walk-ins will be allowed. Please sign up at mcceastbay.org/legal-clinic
Third Fridays of Each Month | 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. | MCC Room 16 | Appointment required (no walk-ins); RSVP at mcceastbay.org/legal-clinic
MCC will hold legal clinics on the following days:

2026:

Jan. 16, 2026
April 17, 2026
May 15, 2026
June 19, 2026
July 17, 2026
Aug. 21, 2026
Sep. 18, 2026
Oct. 16, 2026
Nov. 20, 2026
Dec. 18, 2026

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
Erum Choudhry has more than ten years of legal experience. She graduated from Cornell Law School in 2002. She served as a senior attorney/associate with boutique law firms in Silicon Valley and well-established law firms in Northern California. She counsels clients from individuals, families, and startups to Fortune 500 companies, major hospitals, and multinational corporations.
She is committed to helping each client with a personalized solution. She is well equipped with the tools like experience, staff, empathy, and compassion to help communities grapple with boom-bust challenges, whether immigration, bankruptcy, or estate planning matters. She picked these areas of practice because these areas of law allow her to understand her clients, serve the community, and help them enjoy a stress-free life.
She enjoys interacting with her clients and audience. She is a frequent speaker at local community and youth events. She provides pro bono services to underprivileged community members and works with local nonprofit organizations to help immigrants.

Peace Terrace Academy (ISEB) Tables @ MCC Jumu'ahs
2026-04-17 13:30 - 16:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Peace Terrace Academy based in Fremont is here to promote their Islamic school. Please visit their table this Friday to learn more about their organization.

Women's Weekly Friday Evening Halaqa | The Rahmah Foundation
2026-04-17 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-04-24 19:00 - 21:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Ustadha Dr. Rania Awaad holds a weekly women’s gathering on Friday evenings to discuss navigating contemporary issues. This program runs in parallel to the Friday night girl’s halaqa.

7 p.m. to 9 p.m. | Every Friday from September 19, 2025, to May 22, 2026 | MCC Conference Room | Free; no registration or RSVP required to attend in person | To join virtually, register at https://mcceastbay.org/zoom

– More Dr. Rania: https://mcceastbay.org/rania
– Watch past Dr. Rania’s Friday Night Halaqa (FNH) recordings: https://mcceastbay.org/womens-halaqa
– Join Dr. Rania’s WhatsUp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HlHmFFnGbwvCvLl6uGD1C4
– The Rahmah Foundation’s Holiday Calendar: https://mcceastbay.org/rahmah-calendar

The FNH Fall session runs from Friday, September 19, 2025, to May 22, 2026, with no halaqas on the following dates: Friday, November 28, December 19, December 26, January 2, February 20 through March 27, April 3, and April 10. See calendar.

Free weekly babysitting is provided in Room 23. Facility map: https://mcceastbay.org/facility-map

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

This women’s halaqa is hosted at MCC and runs parallel to the girls & teens program in partnership with The Rahmah Foundation.

Ustadha Rania Awaad was raised in the U.S. and began her formal study of the traditional Islamic sciences when her parents permitted her to travel to Damascus, Syria, at 14. Her desire to continue studying the Deen resulted in multiple trips back to Damascus, interspersed between her high school, college, and medical studies. She was honored to receive Ijazah (authorization to teach) several branches of the Shari’ah sciences at the hands of many renowned scholars, including many female scholars. She has received Ijazah to teach Tajwid in the Hafs and Warsh recitations from the late eminent Syrian scholar Shaykh Abu Hassan al-Kurdi. In addition to completing several advanced texts of the Shafi’i madhhab, she is licensed to teach texts of Maliki fiqh, Adab, and Ihsan. Currently, Ustadha Rania teaches online and local classes for The Rahmah Foundation, Rabata. She is on the faculty of Zaytuna College, where she teaches courses in Shafi’i fiqh and women’s issues in fiqh and has helped develop and co-direct the Tajweed and Hifz program.

Ustadha Rania is also a medical doctor with a specialty in Psychiatry. She completed her Psychiatric residency and fellowship training at Stanford University, where she is currently on the faculty as a Clinical Instructor in the Stanford Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences department. Her medical interests include addressing mental health care concerns in the Muslim community- particularly that of Muslim women and girls. She has been awarded grants from the NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health) to research this topic and has presented her findings at several medical conferences. Other ongoing endeavors include compiling manuscripts addressing female-related mental health and medical issues from a fiqh-oriented perspective. She is the Director of the Rahmah Foundation, a non-profit organization that teaches traditional Islamic knowledge to Muslim women and girls. In this capacity, she also heads the Murbbiyah Mentoring Program, which trains young women to teach and mentor Muslim girls and teens. Ustadha Rania is both a wife and a mother; she has been counseling and teaching women classes on Tajwid, Shafi’i Fiqh, Ihsan, marriage, and raising children since 1999.

Learn more about Dr. Rania and her work at http://med.stanford.edu/psychiatry/research/MuslimMHLab.html

Every Friday evening, the MCC bustles with activity. MCC hosts four halaqas to increase God-consciousness for youth, women, and men.

Join Dr. Rania Awaad‘s women’s gathering on navigating contemporary issues from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. This wide-ranging Muslimah halaqa is in the MCC Conference Room, and the first hour is live-streamed here (watch past sessions at https://mcceastbay.org/halaqa). This halaqa is organized in partnership with The Rahmah Foundation. Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

From Shackles to the Minaret: The Legacy of Bilal | Miftaah Seminar*
2026-04-17 19:00 - 22:00 | CA
MCC is excited to host a Miftaah Seminar: From Shackles to the Minaret: The Legacy of Bilal!
The story of Bilal ibn Rabah رضي الله عنه is one of resilience, faith, and honor. Once a slave under brutal oppression, he rose to become the first mu’adhin of Islam, his voice echoing across Madinah, calling believers to prayer. His legacy is not only a symbol of liberation but a powerful reminder of the dignity that Islam grants every soul.
Join us for a powerful evening with Mufti Abdul Wahab Waheed as we reflect on the life, struggles, and elevation of this beloved companion of the Prophet ﷺ. This is a meaningful opportunity to deepen your understanding and connect with an inspiring legacy that continues to resonate today.
Register here: mcceastbay.org/shacklestominaret
Friday, April 17 | 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. | MCC East Bay
About Miftaah Institute
Miftaah Institute is an Islamic educational institution founded in 2015 to make sacred knowledge accessible to all levels of the community, focusing on teaching Prophetic traditions through on-site and online platforms. Based in Warren, Michigan, it offers structured programs, including a 54-credit Associate’s Degree, a Bachelor’s program, and intensive Arabic and Islamic studies.
More Mufti Abdul Wahab Waheed: mcceastbay.org/abdul-wahab

Monthly Mawlid Al Habib | Celebratory Gathering of Salutations on Our Beloved Prophet ﷺ
2026-04-18 18:00 - 20:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Connect more with Muhammad (peace be upon him) as we gather on the third Saturday of each month in remembrance and dhikr with Bay Area Munshideens and guest speakers.
During each gathering, Ustadh Tariq Samady will cover a chapter from the text The Kingdom of the Heart by Habib Umar b. Hafiz.
6 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Maghrib to Isha) | Saturdays | MCC Conference Room | Join us in person or watch live at mcceastbay.org/live
Dates for Monthly Family Mawlid at MCC East Bay in 2026

Saturday, January 17, 2026
Saturday, February 14, 2026
No session during Ramadan in March ’26
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Saturday, May 16, 2026
Saturday, June 20, 2026
Saturday, July 18, 2026
Saturday, August 15, 2026
Saturday, September 19, 2026
Saturday, October 17, 2026
Saturday, November 21, 2026
Saturday, December 19, 2026

– Watch past mawlid celebrations at MCC: http://mcceastbay.org/mawlid
– More Sidi Tareq: https://mcceastbay.org/tariq
– More sessions about the book using the monthly Mawlids, “The Kingdom of the Heart”: http://mcceastbay.org/kingdom
– Purchase “The Kingdom of the Heart” by Habib Umar bin Hafiz: https://www.amazon.com/Kingdom-Heart-Habib-Umar-Hafiz/dp/173537671X

Sponsored by Circles of Light & MCC East Bay.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
The Mawlid is a joyous expression of the greatest blessing from Allah.
We take this blessed opportunity monthly to remind ourselves of the three sacred rights that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ requires from us, instilling in us a deep sense of respect and reverence.

– Marifah – Recognizing who the Messenger of Allah ﷺ is
– Muhabbah – Loving the Messenger of Allah ﷺ
– Ittiba’ – Obedience to the Messenger of Allah ﷺ

The second two (loving and obeying) are not entirely possible without truly recognizing the first, who the Messenger of Allah ﷺ was. This recognition enlightens us and deepens our knowledge of his teachings.

– Past mawlid celebrations at MCC: http://mcceastbay.org/mawlid

About the Book, “The Kingdom of the Heart”
“Within every human being is a Kingdom. The heart is the ruler of this Kingdom, and the rest of the body is its subjects. If the heart rules with justice and excellence, the body will perform good actions, and the Kingdom will flourish. If the heart neglects its duties, the body will disobey Allah, and the entire Kingdom will suffer the consequences. Allah ﷻ made this Kingdom so crucial that through it the eternal and everlasting dominion of the next life is either gained or lost.” The Kingdom of the Heart by Habib ‘Umar Bin Hafiz gives the reader a deeper understanding of the importance of cultivating the spiritual kingdom of the heart. Readers will gain a deeper appreciation of how outward actions have spiritual consequences. Some of the topics covered are: •⁠ ⁠The Tongue & Its Effects •⁠ ⁠Looking at Creation with Love & Mercy •⁠ ⁠The Impact of Shaking Hands •⁠ ⁠Attending to the Ending of Our Lives •⁠ ⁠The Impact of Intention This book uniquely shows the direct correlation between outward actions and the heart, giving us insights into how various actions impact the state of our hearts. Ultimately, it gives us a way to internalize the wisdom and purpose of acts of devotion, resulting in the purification of the heart and nearness to Allah ﷻ.
About the Author
Habib Umar bin Hafiz (Arabic: حبيب عمر بن حفيظ, romanized: Ḥabīb ʿUmar bin Ḥafīẓ; Arabic pronunciation: [ħabiːb ʕumar bin ħafiːðˤ]; born 27 May 1963) is a Yemeni Sunni and Sufi Islamic scholar, teacher, and founder and dean of Dar al-Mustafa Islamic seminary.[3] He is also a Supreme Advisory Council member for the Tabah Foundation in Abu Dhabi.
Ustadh Tariq Samady
Ustadh Tariq Samady is a native of the Bay Area with roots in the ancient city of Kabul. He has been a lifelong seeker of Islamic knowledge, learning from a wide range of Muslim scholars, both local and international. With the blessings of his teachers, he has contributed to various educational programs and gatherings of dhikr.
His research and editing interests span Qur’an and Hadith commentaries, Philology, Spirituality, and Persian Poetry. Tariq is the founder of Circles of Light (حلق النور), a fledgling educational initiative focused on sharing sacred learnings and wisdom for the community’s benefit. He studied Computer Science at California State University—East Bay and has over ten years of experience as a Developer and Analytics QA Engineer.
About Circles of Light
Circles of Light is a fledgling educational initiative focused on sharing sacred learnings and wisdom for the benefit of the community, meant to assist in maximizing Dunya (this life) for our Deen (Faith). He gives wisdom to whomever He wills. Whoever is given wisdom has been given much good. But none pays heed except those with insight. (Quran). We are motivated by the words of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him); the most beloved people to Allah are those most beneficial to the people. (Hadith). We seek to achieve this aim through our in-person educational programs and publications.
Almighty Allah ﷻ directs us in Sūratul Aḥzāb, “Verily, Allah and His Angels send blessings on the Messenger of Allah. You who believe invoke blessings on him and salute him with a worthy salutation.” Our purpose of invoking blessings upon the Beloved ﷺ leads to proximity to Almighty Allah ﷻ by obeying this command while simultaneously fulfilling our rights upon the Messenger of Allah ﷺ. It is crystal clear how vital the invocation of Ṣalawāt is for the believer, and it is a Mercy of Almighty Allah ﷻ for its rewards to be multitudinous. Abundant Ṣalawāt upon the Beloved ﷺ leads to loving him and knowing his beautiful qualities. By that virtue, degrees of purity are realized. From the signs of the people of the Sunnah is sending Ṣalawāt upon him, for the key to all goodness is Ṣalawāt upon the Messenger of Allah ﷺ.

– More Sidi Tariq Samady: http://mcceastbay.org/tariq
– More Tri-Valley and East Bay Mawlid celebrations: https://mcceastbay.org/mawlid
– More about celebrating the Prophet (peace be upon him)’s day of birth: https://seekersguidance.org/answers/general-counsel/innovation-bida-and-celebrating-the-prophets-birthday-mawlid
– More sessions about “The Kingdom of the Heart”: http://mcceastbay.org/kingdom

Monthly Book Reading: The Kingdom of the Hearts | Ustadh Tariq Samady
2026-04-18 18:00 - 20:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
After the Monthly Mawlid, join Ustadh Tariq Samady to cover a chapter from the text The Kingdom of the Heart by Habib Umar b. Hafiz.
6 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Maghrib to Isha) | Saturdays | MCC Conference Room | Join us in person or watch live at mcceastbay.org/live
Dates for Monthly Family Mawlid at MCC East Bay in 2026

Saturday, January 17, 2026
No session during Ramadan in February ’26
No session during Ramadan in March ’26
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Saturday, May 16, 2026
Saturday, June 20, 2026
Saturday, July 18, 2026
Saturday, August 15, 2026
Saturday, September 19, 2026
Saturday, October 17, 2026
Saturday, November 21, 2026
Saturday, December 19, 2026

– Watch past mawlid celebrations at MCC: http://mcceastbay.org/mawlid
– More Sidi Tareq: https://mcceastbay.org/tariq
– More sessions about the book using the monthly Mawlids, “The Kingdom of the Heart”: http://mcceastbay.org/kingdom
– Purchase “The Kingdom of the Heart” by Habib Umar bin Hafiz: https://www.amazon.com/Kingdom-Heart-Habib-Umar-Hafiz/dp/173537671X

Sponsored by Circles of Light & MCC East Bay.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

The Mawlid is a joyous expression of the greatest blessing from Allah.
We take this blessed opportunity monthly to remind ourselves of the three sacred rights that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ requires from us, instilling in us a deep sense of respect and reverence.

– Marifah – Recognizing who the Messenger of Allah ﷺ is
– Muhabbah – Loving the Messenger of Allah ﷺ
– Ittiba’ – Obedience to the Messenger of Allah ﷺ

The second two (loving and obeying) are not entirely possible without truly recognizing the first, who the Messenger of Allah ﷺ was. This recognition enlightens us and deepens our knowledge of his teachings.

– Past mawlid celebrations at MCC: http://mcceastbay.org/mawlid

About the Book, “The Kingdom of the Heart”
“Within every human being is a Kingdom. The heart is the ruler of this Kingdom, and the rest of the body is its subjects. If the heart rules with justice and excellence, the body will perform good actions, and the Kingdom will flourish. If the heart neglects its duties, the body will disobey Allah, and the entire Kingdom will suffer the consequences. Allah ﷻ made this Kingdom so crucial that through it the eternal and everlasting dominion of the next life is either gained or lost.” The Kingdom of the Heart by Habib ‘Umar Bin Hafiz gives the reader a deeper understanding of the importance of cultivating the spiritual kingdom of the heart. Readers will gain a deeper appreciation of how outward actions have spiritual consequences. Some of the topics covered are: •⁠ ⁠The Tongue & Its Effects •⁠ ⁠Looking at Creation with Love & Mercy •⁠ ⁠The Impact of Shaking Hands •⁠ ⁠Attending to the Ending of Our Lives •⁠ ⁠The Impact of Intention This book uniquely shows the direct correlation between outward actions and the heart, giving us insights into how various actions impact the state of our hearts. Ultimately, it gives us a way to internalize the wisdom and purpose of acts of devotion, resulting in the purification of the heart and nearness to Allah ﷻ.
About the Author
Habib Umar bin Hafiz (Arabic: حبيب عمر بن حفيظ, romanized: Ḥabīb ʿUmar bin Ḥafīẓ; Arabic pronunciation: [ħabiːb ʕumar bin ħafiːðˤ]; born 27 May 1963) is a Yemeni Sunni and Sufi Islamic scholar, teacher, and founder and dean of Dar al-Mustafa Islamic seminary.[3] He is also a Supreme Advisory Council member for the Tabah Foundation in Abu Dhabi.
Ustadh Tariq Samady
Ustadh Tariq Samady is a native of the Bay Area with roots in the ancient city of Kabul. He has been a lifelong seeker of Islamic knowledge, learning from a wide range of Muslim scholars, both local and international. With the blessings of his teachers, he has contributed to various educational programs and gatherings of dhikr.
His research and editing interests span Qur’an and Hadith commentaries, Philology, Spirituality, and Persian Poetry. Tariq is the founder of Circles of Light (حلق النور), a fledgling educational initiative focused on sharing sacred learnings and wisdom for the community’s benefit. He studied Computer Science at California State University—East Bay and has over ten years of experience as a Developer and Analytics QA Engineer.
About Circles of Light
Circles of Light is a fledgling educational initiative focused on sharing sacred learnings and wisdom for the benefit of the community, meant to assist in maximizing Dunya (this life) for our Deen (Faith). He gives wisdom to whomever He wills. Whoever is given wisdom has been given much good. But none pays heed except those with insight. (Quran). We are motivated by the words of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him); the most beloved people to Allah are those most beneficial to the people. (Hadith). We seek to achieve this aim through our in-person educational programs and publications.
Almighty Allah ﷻ directs us in Sūratul Aḥzāb, “Verily, Allah and His Angels send blessings on the Messenger of Allah. You who believe invoke blessings on him and salute him with a worthy salutation.” Our purpose of invoking blessings upon the Beloved ﷺ leads to proximity to Almighty Allah ﷻ by obeying this command while simultaneously fulfilling our rights upon the Messenger of Allah ﷺ. It is crystal clear how vital the invocation of Ṣalawāt is for the believer, and it is a Mercy of Almighty Allah ﷻ for its rewards to be multitudinous. Abundant Ṣalawāt upon the Beloved ﷺ leads to loving him and knowing his beautiful qualities. By that virtue, degrees of purity are realized. From the signs of the people of the Sunnah is sending Ṣalawāt upon him, for the key to all goodness is Ṣalawāt upon the Messenger of Allah ﷺ.

– More Sidi Tariq Samady: http://mcceastbay.org/tariq
– More Tri-Valley and East Bay Mawlid celebrations: https://mcceastbay.org/mawlid
– More about celebrating the Prophet (peace be upon him)’s day of birth: https://seekersguidance.org/answers/general-counsel/innovation-bida-and-celebrating-the-prophets-birthday-mawlid
– More sessions about “The Kingdom of the Heart”: http://mcceastbay.org/kingdom

Mommy & Me April/May 2026 Sessions | MCC's Mommy & Me Program
2026-04-25 10:00 - 11:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
In this six-week sessions, our toddlers and pre-schoolers (ages 1-5) will develop love for Islam, Allah (swt), and RasulAllah (saw) through book reading, sing-alongs, Parachute Time, activities, and more!
Thursdays & Saturdays: 4/16, 4/23, 4/25 4/30, 5/7, 5/9, 5/14, & 5/21 | 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. | Conference Room | $90 for 6 sessions, or $20 per session | Register at mcceastbay.org/happyhearts
These Mommy & Me sessions are designed for girls and boys ages one to five who are accompanied by a female guardian. Moms, grandmothers, and so on are welcome. This is also a great opportunity to connect with other moms and caretakers in the MCC community.
Our Mommy and Me sessions begin with dua and a salaam/greeting song and end with the Fi-Amanillah song and kid-favorite parachute time.
Questions? Happy Hearts Playgroup Facilitator Sr. Khadija at mommyandme@mcceastbay.org
MCC has a standing policy that financial need should never hold a person back from attending any activity held in the community center. To request a financial waiver, please complete our financial waiver request: HTTP://mcceastbay.org/scholarship

Monthly Sisters' Mawlid
2026-04-25 11:00 - 13:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
For Sisters: Join us monthly for sisters’ Mawlid for a gathering of remembrance and Dhikr.
Connect more with Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as we gather on the fourth Saturday of each month in remembrance and dhikr.
Saturday, April 25 | 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. | MCC Conference Room | In-person only | Free; no RSVP required

Sisters and children welcome. No boys over the age of eight are allowed.
Dates for Monthly Women’s Mawlid at MCC East Bay

– March 28th 11-1pm
– April 25th 11-1pm
– May 30th 12-2pm
– June 27th 11-1pm
– July 25th 11-1pm
– Aug 29th 11-1pm
– Sep 26th 11-1pm
– Oct 31st 11-1pm
– Dec 5th 11-1pm

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
The Mawlid is a joyous expression of the greatest blessing from Allah.
We take this blessed opportunity monthly to remind ourselves of the three sacred rights that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ requires from us, instilling in us a deep sense of respect and reverence.

– Marifah – Recognizing who the Messenger of Allah ﷺ is
– Muhabbah – Loving the Messenger of Allah ﷺ
– Ittiba’ – Obedience to the Messenger of Allah ﷺ

The second two (loving and obeying) are not entirely possible without genuinely recognizing the first – who the Messenger of Allah ﷺ was. This recognition enlightens us and deepens our knowledge of his teachings.
